Final answer:
The Fair Housing Act of 1968 was enacted to prevent discrimination in housing based on race, religion, and national origin, and later amendments included gender, disability, and familial status. Despite its intentions, discrimination continues, and enforcement has varied. Fair housing audits are one method used to identify discriminatory practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Fair Housing Act of 1968, often referred to as the Civil Rights Act of 1968, is a pivotal piece of legislation that sought to eliminate discrimination related to the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, and since amended, gender, disability, and familial status. Passed at the height of the civil rights movement, it followed major civil rights actions such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This act makes it illegal to refuse to sell or rent a dwelling to any person because of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Over the years, enforcement efforts and additional amendments have sought to strengthen the act, addressing ongoing issues such as redlining and evidence of discrimination despite legal prohibitions.
Fair housing audits are one method used to detect discrimination where two auditors, often one black and one white, inquire about the same housing and compare the treatment they receive. Sadly, historical data shows discrimination persists with significant disparities still affecting minority groups. While there have been policy changes and proposals to enhance the effectiveness of the Fair Housing Act, enforcement has varied over time.